Austin CFC Josh McGuire - Seven Ifs - 2020-03-22
Sermon at Austin Christian Fellowship Church by Josh McGuire on March 22, 2020.
Summary
The sermon explores seven 'if' statements found in John 1-2, emphasizing that Christian fellowship requires active participation and honesty. The speaker stresses that true relationship with God is built by walking in the light—acknowledging sin and living according to what God has revealed—rather than claiming perfection or denying personal failings.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
If we say we have fellowship while walking in darknessJohn begins his letter by warning that claiming fellowship with God while continuing to walk in darkness is a deception and a failure to practice the truth.1 John 1:6
If we walk in the light as He is in the lightWalking honestly according to the light God gives us results in true fellowship with one another and ongoing cleansing from all sin through Jesus.
If we say that we have no sinDenying our sinfulness and pointing the finger at others means we are deceiving ourselves and the truth is not in us.
If we confess our sinsWhen God shines His light on our hearts, our simple task is to confess what He reveals, trusting Him to faithfully forgive and cleanse us.1 John 1:9
If we say that we have not sinnedOur natural fleshly reaction is to deny sin and make excuses like Adam and Eve, but the solution is honest repentance and taking responsibility.1 John 1:10
If anyone sins, we have an AdvocateJohn writes so that we will not sin, but if anyone does stumble, we have Jesus Christ the righteous as our defense attorney who took the punishment for us.1 John 2:1
By this we know Him, if we keep His commandmentsKeeping and treasuring God's non-burdensome commandments in our hearts provides the assurance that we truly know and love Him.1 John 2:3
Congregational sharing on grace and obedienceVarious speakers share personal reflections on the certainty of God's promises, the reality of Christ bearing our sin, and the simplicity of walking honestly in the light.
Understanding His commandments are not burdensomeA concluding speaker reflects on how receiving God's abundant grace makes our part of obedience light and joyful rather than burdensome.
Closing prayerThe gathering closes with a prayer thanking God for His provision, His grace, and the fellowship of the church.
